Eastern

East India

East India, also known as Eastern India, is a culturally rich heritage and geographically diverse region known for its historical significance, natural beauty, classical and folk traditions, temple architecture, and vibrant festivals. From the Himalayas in the north to the Bay of Bengal in the east, the region features fertile plains, coastal areas, forests, and islands, with major rivers such as the Ganges and Mahanadi flowing through it. 

The Eastern region of India consists of the Indian states of Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha (or Orissa), as well as the Union Territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It shares borders with Sikkim in the north, Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in the west, Andhra Pradesh in the south, the Bay of Bengal in the south-east and the seven sister states of Northeast India in the northeast. This region also shares international boundaries with Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

Eastern India has a rich historical legacy dating back to ancient times. It was ruled by several powerful dynasties, including the Magadha, Pala, Sen, Eastern Ganga, Kalinga Kingdom, and Malla. The region saw enormous cultural and religious developments, including the rise of Buddhism and Jainism. During the colonial period, Bengal became a key center of British administration and the Indian independence movement.

 

A Quick Facts About North India:-

Total States in Eastern Region of India4
Total Union Territory in Eastern Region of India1
Land Area in Eastern Region of India<418,323 Sq. Kms
Largest State of Eastern Region of India (in terms of Population)Bihar
Largest State of Eastern Region of India (in terms of Area)Orissa or Odisha (covering 155,707 Sq. Kms)
Largest City in Eastern Region of IndiaKolkata, also known as Calcutta
Bihar Foundation Day22nd March, 1912
Jharkhand Foundation Day15th November, 2000
Popular Places of Tourist Interest in Eastern Region of IndiaCultural. Heritage, Adventure, Religious, Hill Stations, Festivals and more

Eastern Indian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with a strong emphasis on rice, lentils, and seafood. The most popular dishes in eastern India are macher jhol (fish curry), litti chokha, temple food like the Mahaprasad, Dhusu (rice flour dumplings), Pitha (rice cakes with sweet or savory fillings), and desserts like rasgulla and sandesh. The region also has a vibrant tradition of dance and music. Classical forms such as Odissi dance and Rabindra Sangeet (from Bengal) reflect deep cultural roots, while folk styles like Chhau, Santhali dance, and Baul music portray local stories and spirituality. Tribal rhythms and regional instruments enrich the region’s musical legacy.

The art and craft of Eastern India are profoundly rooted in tradition and regional identity. Madhubani paintings from Bihar and Pattachitra from Odisha are well-known for their intricate designs and mythological themes. The region is also known for terracotta art, stone and wood carvings, and handloom textiles such as Baluchari and Sambalpuri sarees. Tribal crafts, such as bamboo and cane crafting, are widely practiced across Jharkhand and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Furthermore, Eastern India’s architecture showcases a rich fusion of ancient, medieval, and colonial styles. Odisha stands out for its magnificent temples, such as the Konark Sun Temple and Jagannath Temple. In West Bengal and Bihar, the landscape is adorned with colonial buildings, historic Buddhist sites like Nalanda and the Mahabodhi Temple, and intricate terracotta structures, reflecting the region’s diverse heritage.

Eastern region of India is religiously and linguistically diverse. Hinduism is the most prevalent religion, followed by Islam, Sikhism, Buddhism, Christianity, and tribal faith. The primary languages spoken are Hindi, Bengali, Odia, Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Santali, as well as regional tribal languages such as Ho, Mundari, and Kui. Bengali is widely spoken in West Bengal, Odia in Odisha, and Hindi in Bihar and Jharkhand. In the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Hindi, Bengali, and Nicobarese are widely spoken. English is mostly used in urban areas.

East India offers a diverse and enriching tourism experience, ranging from West Bengal’s colonial architecture and Himalayan scenery to tribal cultures in Jharkhand and Odisha’s historic temples such as the Konark Sun Temple and Jagannath Temple, as well as calm beaches. Bihar attracts pilgrims to the sacred site of Bodh Gaya, while the Andaman and Nicobar Islands enchant with their beautiful beaches and marine life.

Tourists have a wide range of options for theme-based vacations in Eastern India, such as religious sites, eco-tourism, cultural & heritage and more. Each type of vacation shines best in a specific season. For example, hill station getaways (e.g. Darjeeling) would be at their best during summers. Spiritual and religious tours, Beach holidays (e.g. Puri, Bodh Gaya, Andaman Islands) would be at their best during Winter and early spring. Cultural festivals and heritage tours are best enjoyed during festive seasons, especially Rath Yatra and Durga Puja.

The eastern region of India celebrates a number of vibrant fairs and festivals reflecting its rich cultural and traditional roots. Some prominent festivals include Durga Puja (renowned for gigantic idols and processions), Dussehra, Rath Yatra, Dol Purnima (Popularly Known as Holi throughout India), and various tribal festivals such as Sarhul and Chaul in Jharkhand. Other significant events include the Odisha Konark Dance Festival.

Major cities in eastern India, such as Patna, Kolkata, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar, have international and domestic airports that serve a wide range of destinations worldwide. A vast railway network connects the region to the rest of the country, and national highways provide easy road access to major states and cities. Travellers can easily reach their desired destinations through State-Run and Private buses, local taxis/cabs and personal vehicles.

West Bengal

TOUR PACKAGES OF EAST INDIA

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